The centre of bustling Bangkok returns to an era of refinement when Daraya Boutique Hotel opened its doors on October 1, 2019. Drawing inspiration from the King Rama V era, Daraya Boutique Hotel is a bold statement of individuality, with a distinctive blending of traditional Thai elements with modern conveniences.

Situated in the epicenter of Bangkok, Daraya is a paradise for shoppers, located near iconic malls Siam Centre, Paragon and MBK as well as cultural treasures like the Jim Thompson House. The central positioning means it is conveniently accessible from both major airports and just moments from the BTS, allowing for easy commuting around the city.

The boutique hotel is the brainchild of hospitality pioneer, Ms. Rungaroon Rojanachotikul also known as Khun Pui.  Having grown up abroad in New Zealand and studied at the esteemed hospitality management school ‘Les Roches’ in Switzerland, Khun Pui embraced the sharing of cultures and traditions as she continued working across Europe and Asia. Her international exposure cultivated a love of travel and new experiences, forming the inspiration to create a hotel of her own where travellers can rediscover the timeless elegance of Old Siam. By leveraging her family’s experience in the hotel and cinema industry, she has created an immersive experience for travellers seeking a merging of old-world glamour and modern conveniences.

Daraya Boutique Hotel was meticulously planned from the ground as a celebration of the elegance of Old Siam, combined with all modern comforts of an international hotel. Khun Pui has imagined Daraya as an elegant lady who represents a beautiful merging of both Thai and Western cultures.

“Thailand enjoyed a period of immense prosperity during King Rama V reign from 1868-1910. As the country internationalized, glorious European architectural styles were embraced for government buildings and residences of the royal family members. They showcased the Kingdom as a modern and civilized country, and as equal to any of the neighbouring British, French, and Dutch colonies. Daraya draws upon this rich tapestry with exteriors that evoke visions of the Colonial past and the grand interiors in line with the way we discover the present. Simply said, the building architecture is what Thais would call ‘Farang’. Our interiors are designed with detailed blend of Thai and European tastes while providing modern facilities to match any international hotel standards,” explains Ms. Rungaroon, “Our intention is to recreate and relive an authentic experience for our guests during their stay.”

The word ‘Dara’ means the brightest star and ‘Araya’ means civilization and Daraya seeks to become a shining light in Bangkok’s boutique hotel landscape. All 53 rooms and suites are unique homages to the past but enhanced by all the modern comforts of a boutique hotel. The property features seven types of rooms ranging from Superior to Daraya Suite, with each room composed of luxurious bedding, a French press coffee maker with local coffee, a selection of loose leaf tea, premium toiletries, and a Marshall Acton II Bluetooth. Last but not least, the premium room types feature a great collection of luxury L’Occitane amenities.

For a unique space tucked away in a quiet alley, it boasts exceptional culinary journeys, highlighting traditional Thai recipes and international fare. Expect nothing less than the best at Daraya’s signature restaurant, Ros Dara, and Mon Dara, the rooftop lounge where the handcrafted cocktails are carefully made with the twist.

Ros Dara draws upon Khun Pui’s childhood memories of the taste (Ros) of her mother’s recipes (Dara) is designed for comfort where guests can unwind with a range of traditional Thai specialties, western favourites, and the best coffee on the block. Gather friends or family and grab a few dishes as you share a delightful range of flavours. The rooftop lounge Mon Dara casts a delightful spell. Enhanced by cool evening breezes and an open sky, guests can indulge in a range of crafty cocktails, frosty beers, smoothies, or a range of delectable bites to keep any appetite at bay.

Other facilities include a panoramic rooftop pool, ‘The Treatment Room’ for spa pampering, and the multipurpose The Drawing Room – the perfect space to host a meeting, catch up on work, or simply relax with a good book.

“Our boutique property is a hidden gem located at the center of Bangkok downtown catered for both International and Thai travelers. We aim to make your stay as comfortable as possible, and your visit to Bangkok just as memorable. Don’t take our word for it, experience it yourself!” comments Ms. Rungaroon.

Daraya Boutique Hotel marks the latest property to be constructed and managed by Bangkok based new-thinking hospitality group Unicorn Hotels & Resorts, adding to properties throughout Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar and the Maldives.

“We are very excited to introduce Daraya, which has been designed with bold originality, rich character and distinctive details in mind,” comments Mr. Yann Gouriou, CEO of Unicorn Hotels & Resorts, “The hotel’s layout and structure have been meticulously planned to embody the old-world charm of Old Siam in a modern and upscale boutique property and we are pleased to be able to offer accommodation of such distinction in Bangkok.”

Be classy, Be Elegant, Be Daraya.